Pinched Nerves

A "pinched nerve" is the term for pain or impaired function of a nerve that is under pressure. It happens to nerves that control muscle movements or relay sensations to the brain.

Common causes of pinched nerves include:

• bulging discs in the spine that cause back, leg, neck, arm, or shoulder pain
• compression of a nerve at the elbow or wrist
• a prolonged cramped posture
• arthritis
• an abnormal bone growth, such as a bone spur
• use of a cast or crutches
• repetitive motion on the job or
• a tumor

The initial symptoms of a pinched nerve may be:

• tingling
• numbness
• a burning sensation or
• shooting pains

Sometimes the pains and sensations are distant from the point of pressure. For instance, a pinched nerve in the low back may cause pain in the calf as the only symptom. When there is nerve damage from constant pressure, pain and weakness may increase. There may be a loss of reflexes, movement skills, sensation in the affected area, and withering (atrophy) of the affected muscles can occur.

The following steps may relieve discomfort from a pinched nerve:

• pain medications, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen
• a heating pad
• wearing a splint or brace
• rubbing and gently shaking out affected limb
• lying down with the affected limb hanging below the body or
• elevating the affected limb

Medication Cautions:

1. Do NOT give aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or aspirin-containing products to anyone age 18 years or younger because of the risk of a serious illness called Reye's syndrome.
2. Acetaminophen should not be taken by anyone with known liver or kidney disease. Do not drink alcohol when taking more than 1 dose of acetaminophen.
3. Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation. Do NOT give NSAIDs to anyone with asthma or increased risk of bleeding (such as, ulcer disease, following surgery, significant trauma, major dental work, if taking blood thinners [anticoagulants] or have a known bleeding disorder).

Preventive measures, such as taking breaks, changing position often, keeping good posture, and not lifting heavy objects can also lessen the discomfort.

For major pinched nerve conditions, a healthcare provider may prescribe medications, physical therapy, or perhaps even surgery to lessen or remove the compression.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BRAI4257.rf2 VRS# 4257 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2000 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.